Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has criticized former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi for her handling of the post-1971 Bangladesh situation, calling it a “historic opportunity lost”.
In a detailed post on X, Sarma argued that while India’s military victory in the 1971 Indo-Pak war was decisive, the political leadership failed to secure lasting strategic gains. He claimed that India’s support for a secular Bangladesh did not materialize as expected, citing the 1988 declaration of Islam as Bangladesh’s state religion.
“Had Mrs. Indira Gandhi been alive today, the nation would have questioned her for mishandling the decisive victory won by our armed forces,” Sarma wrote.
The Assam CM also pointed out that India failed to secure a land corridor through northern Bangladesh, leaving the Siliguri Corridor (Chicken’s Neck) strategically exposed. He further alleged that illegal immigration from Bangladesh has led to demographic changes in Assam and Bengal, sparking social unrest.
Sarma’s remarks come amid Congress leaders praising Indira Gandhi’s leadership during the 1971 war, especially in contrast to the recent ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan.
His comments have sparked political debate, with Congress leaders defending Gandhi’s diplomatic approach, while BJP leaders support Sarma’s assertion of missed strategic opportunities.
The discussion around India’s role in Bangladesh’s creation continues to be a contentious historical topic, shaping perspectives on regional security and diplomatic strategy.
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